29.04.2021

Let’s get our hands dirty! A new EAEA background report on greening adult learning and education

Time is moving quickly, and anything around the term “sustainability” has gained widespread attention in the past years. From the dinner table to the Sunday night talk show and into our local adult education centres, sustainability is arriving at the centre stage of many European societies. What is at stake and what are our pathways to advocacy for a sustainable future for all?

“We are not in the same boat – we are in the same storm,” states a new report published by EAEA, analysing European and international perspectives on adult learning and education (ALE) and sustainability. Arguing that the ongoing COVID-19 crisis has showcased how important political will is in transforming societies, the report makes a compelling case for more advocacy at all levels to achieve a just and fair recovery.

Looking at key initiatives such as the Sustainable Development Goals, the Green Deal and the European Skills Agenda, the report takes stock of the policy commitments and achievements, with particular attention paid to possible links to non-formal adult learning and education. A call to action offers inspiration to those who would like to increase their efforts in advocacy for more sustainable, fair, holistic and inclusive education.

Consult the report:

04.06.2026 key competences

Competence development and community-building through sports 

The links between sports and learning appear to positively impact personal, emotional, and social habits. While these benefits for physical and mental well-being are acknowledged, reports indicate a lack of participation from EU citizens in sports and physical activities.

22.05.2026 skills

Farmers are ready to adapt to the twin transition — but training systems must be adjusted too

Europe’s farmers are often portrayed as resistant to change. Yet across the continent, farmers are already navigating climate pressures, sustainability requirements, rising costs, labour shortages and rapid technological change. The challenge may not be a lack of willingness to learn, but whether education and training systems are designed for the realities of agricultural life.

12.05.2026 digitalisation

Strengthening adult education through emerging technologies

While new technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) have become more and more integrated in formal education settings, adult education has yet to profit properly from these technological advancements.